Spotlight Innovation Inc (AEXP) SEC Quarterly Report (10-Q) for Q1 2018

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period ended March 31, 2018

Commission File No. 000-52542

11147 Aurora Avenue

Aurora Business Park, Building 3

Urbandale, IA 50322

(Address of principal executive offices)

(515) 274-9087

(Issuer's telephone number)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files. Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common equity, as of the latest practicable date: As of May 21, 2018, the Company had 34,365,907 outstanding shares of its common stock, par value $0.001.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 2, of Part I of this report include forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements.

In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," "proposed," "intended," or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. You should read statements that contain these words carefully, because they discuss our expectations about our future operating results or our future financial condition or state other "forward-looking" information. There may be events in the future that we are not able to accurately predict or control. Before you invest in our securities, you should be aware that the occurrence of any of the events described in this Quarterly Report could substantially harm our business, results of operations and financial condition, and that upon the occurrence of any of these events, the trading price of our securities could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, growth rates, levels of activity, performance or achievements. We are under no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this Quarterly Report to conform these statements to actual results.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

SPOTLIGHT INNOVATION INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(unaudited)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

SPOTLIGHT INNOVATION INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(unaudited)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

SPOTLIGHT INNOVATION INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

NOTE 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Spotlight Innovation Inc. (the "Company") was organized under the laws of the State of Nevada on March 23, 2012. Spotlight Innovation Inc. is a pharmaceutical company focused on acquiring the intellectual property rights to innovative and proprietary therapeutics designed to address unmet medical needs, with an emphasis on rare, emerging, or neglected diseases. In late summer/early fall of 2016, the Company changed its disease focus and has revised its product offerings including the addition of new indications and the elimination of previous programs. To find and evaluate unique opportunities, we leverage our extensive relationships with leading scientists, academic institutions and other sources. We provide value-added development capability to accelerate progress. When scientifically significant benchmarks have been achieved, we will endeavor to partner with proven market leaders via sale, out-license or strategic alliance.

As of March 31, 2018, the Company had four subsidiaries: Celtic Biotech Iowa, Inc. "Celtic Iowa", Caretta Therapeutics, LLC ("Caretta"), SMA Therapeutics, LLC ("SMA"), and Zika Therapeutics, LLC ("Zika").

Cancer

On June 4, 2014, Celtic Biotech Iowa, Inc. acquired Celtic Biotech Limited (hereinafter "CBL"). CBL was founded in 2003 in Dublin, Ireland and is developing novel and highly specialized compounds derived from snake venom, for the treatment of solid cancers and cancer imaging.

Pain Management

Caretta Therapeutics, LLC was formed in August 2016 to develop the commercialization of over-the-counter products. Caretta holds a license agreement to develop, manufacture and sell certain products derived from snake venom that may have analgesic properties.

Zika Virus Infection

On August 19, 2016, the Company entered a Sponsored Research Agreement (the "SRA") with the Florida State University Research Foundation ("FSURF") starting September 1, 2016, to perform certain research, over a two-year period, related to the discovery, synthetic modification, and preclinical validation of drug-like compounds intended to treat patients with Zika virus infection. The research is being conducted under the direction of Professor Hengli Tang.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

In October 2016, the Company entered into an Exclusive License Agreement with Indiana University Research and Technology Corporation to commercialize STL-182, an orally-available small molecule that may have therapeutic potential for treating spinal muscular atrophy. Spinal Muscular Atrophy is an autosomal recessive disorder that is a leading genetic cause of death in infants and toddlers. 

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") and the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto contained in the Company's latest Annual Report filed with the SEC on Form 10-K. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and the results of operations for the interim periods presented have been reflected herein. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. Notes to the financial statements that would substantially duplicate disclosures contained in the audited financial statements for the most recent fiscal year, as reported in the Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2017 filed with the SEC, have been omitted.

NOTE 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates include those regarding the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of Memcine and share-based compensation.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the Company's accounts, including those of the Company's subsidiaries. Accordingly, the Company has consolidated CBL, Celtic Iowa, CDT (Suspended), Caretta, Zika, and SMA. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Non-Controlling Interest

The Company is required to report its non-controlling interest in all subsidiaries as a separate component of shareholders' equity. The Company is also required to present the consolidated net income and the portion of the consolidated net income allocable to the non-controlling interest and to the shareholders of the Company separately in its consolidated statements of operations. Losses applicable to the non-controlling interest are allocated to the non-controlling interest even when those losses are in excess of the non-controlling interest's investment basis.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains its cash in institutions insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"). The Company had $39,601 and $66,118 cash equivalents at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk include cash deposits placed with financial institutions. The Company maintains its cash in bank accounts which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits as guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"). As of March 31, 2018, the Company had $0 of cash balances that were uninsured. The Company has not experienced any losses on such accounts.

Foreign exchange and currency translation

The Company has maintained cash accounts in U.S. dollars as well as European Union euros, and incurred certain expenses denominated in U.S. dollars and European Union euros. The Company's functional and reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect on the date of the transactions. Assets and liabilities are translated using exchange rates at the end of each period. Exchange gains or losses on transactions are included in earnings. For all periods presented, any exchange gains or losses or translation adjustments resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in the statements of operations as other income (expense).

In-Process Research and Development

In-process research and development ("IPR&D") represents the estimated fair value assigned to research and development projects acquired in a purchased business combination that have not been completed at the date of acquisition and which have no alternative future use. IPR&D assets acquired in a business combination are capitalized as indefinite-lived intangible assets. These assets remain indefinite-lived until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development efforts. During the periods prior to completion or abandonment, those acquired indefinite-lived assets are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. During periods after completion, those acquired indefinite-lived assets are amortized based on their useful life. The fair value of the assets acquired was $6,977,347. These assets are still subject to research and development completion, and accordingly, no amortization has been recorded.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Renewals and betterments which extend the life or improve existing equipment are capitalized. Upon disposition or retirement of equipment, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in operations. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which is 3-10 years.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Intangibles

The Company performs impairment tests on its long-lived assets when circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. If required, recoverability is tested by comparing the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the asset or asset group to its carrying value. If the carrying value is not recoverable, the asset or asset group is written down to fair value. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded no in impairment to the Company's long-lived assets.

Deferred Financing Costs

We have incurred debt origination costs in connection with the issuance of short-term convertible debt. These costs are capitalized as deferred financing costs and amortized using the straight-line method over the term of the related convertible debt.

Royalty Liability

The holders of certain convertible notes receive royalties as described in Footnote 9. The holders of the certain convertible notes referenced in Note 7 will receive, in the aggregate, pro rata based on investment, a total of five percent of the revenues of Caretta Therapeutics, LLC during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. The Company records unrealized gains and losses on the change of present value of the royalty liabilities.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock and stock options based on the grant date fair value of the awards. The Company determines the fair value of stock option grants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company determines the fair value of shares of non-vested stock (also commonly referred to as restricted stock) based on the last quoted price of our stock on the date of the share grant. The fair value determined represents the cost for the award and is recognized over the vesting period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. As share-based compensation expense is recognized based on awards ultimately expected to vest, the Company reduces the expense for estimated forfeitures based on historical forfeiture rates, if historical forfeiture rates are available. Previously recognized compensation costs may be adjusted to reflect the actual forfeiture rate for the entire award at the end of the vesting period. Excess tax benefits, if any, are recognized as an addition to paid-in capital.

Income Taxes

The Company utilizes the asset and liability method in accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards and for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the results of operations in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets unless it is more likely than not that the value of such assets will be realized.

Loss per Common Share

Basic net income (loss) per common share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Common share equivalents included in the diluted computation represent shares issuable upon assumed exercise of stock options and warrants or the assumed conversion of convertible debt instruments, using the treasury stock and "if converted" method. For periods in which net losses are incurred, weighted average shares outstanding is the same for basic and diluted loss per share calculations, as the inclusion of common share equivalents would have an anti-dilutive effect.

For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the dilutive effect of the issuance of 223,440 and 121,500 warrants, and 74,973, and 767,282 common shares issuable for conversion of convertible debt, respectively, were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company follows FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement ("ASC 820"), which clarifies fair value as an exit price, establishes a hierarchal disclosure framework for measuring fair value, and requires extended disclosures about fair value measurements. The provisions of ASC 820 apply to all financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value.

As defined in ASC 820, fair value, clarified as an exit price, represents the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As a result, fair value is a market-based approach that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability.

As a basis for considering these assumptions, ASC 820 defines a three-tier value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value.

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

The fair value hierarchy also requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The Company's IPR&D assets were valued on a discounted cash flow model using the income approach. The inputs to the model were within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Subsequent Events

The Company evaluated subsequent events through the date when the financial statements were issued for disclosure consideration.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

There were various accounting standards and interpretations issued recently, none of which are expected to have a material effect on the Company's operations, financial position or cash flows.

NOTE 3. GOING CONCERN

The Company is an early stage company and as such has not generated revenues from operations and there is no assurance of any future revenues. The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates, among other things, the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. As of March 31, 2018, the Company had accumulated net losses of $42,424,699 and had a working capital deficit of $2,523,964. These factors raise substantial doubt as to the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.

The ability of the Company to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company's successful efforts to raise sufficient capital and then attain profitable operations. Management is investigating all options to raise enough funds to meet the Company's working capital requirements through either the sale of the Company's common stock or other financings. There can be no assurances, however, that management will be able to obtain sufficient additional funds when needed, or that such funds, if available, will be obtained on terms satisfactory to the Company.

NOTE 4. INVENTORY

Inventory consisted of the following:

NOTE 5. NOTES RECEIVABLE

During 2016, the Company made two investments in SOLX, Inc. ("SOLX"), a Massachusetts-based, privately-held medical device company that develops innovative surgical technologies to treat refractory glaucoma and preserve vision. The Company purchased $200,000 and $800,000 in Senior Convertible Promissory notes, maturing October 1, 2017. The notes carry an interest rate of 10%. No periodic interest payments will be made, upon maturity the principal balance and the accrued interest will be paid unless converted to equity. On a fully converted basis, the principal represents about a 10% interest in SOLX. Of the 10% interest, 3% has been assigned to K4 Enterprises, LLC ("K4 Enterprises"). During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased an additional note from SOLX in the amount of $36,771, and accrued interest income of $59,693 during 2017.

The Company was issued a warrant to purchase Series A Preferred stock or Series A-2 Preferred stock of SOLX. The warrant allows the Company to purchase 35% of the face value of the Company investment at a price of $0.8170 for Series A Preferred stock or $0.940 for Series A-2 Preferred stock. The expiration date is the earlier of (i) December 6, 2026, (ii) the closing of the initial public offering (IPO) of the SOLX Common Stock, (iii) the closing of the sale or substantially all of the assets of SOLX.

The Company was advised that on September 20, 2017, the FDA sent a formal denial to SOLX of the application for FDA approval of the treatment for refractory glaucoma. SOLX informed the Company that they will cease operations. The Company has determined, with the FDA denial of the application and SOLX's assertion to cease operations, the note receivable is fully impaired, and the Company has charged the total balance of $1,116,075 (including the accrued interest) against earnings in 2017. The value of the warrants issued to the Company by SOLX have been written off given the assertion by SOLX.

NOTE 6. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

NOTE 7. NOTES PAYABLE

During 2016, the Company conducted a private offering of up to $2,500,000 in principal amount of the Company's convertible promissory notes (the "Private Pla(cement"), which bear interest at the rate of 7.5% per annum. The notes are convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at a price per share equal to 90% of the closing bid price of the common stock during the 20 consecutive trading days immediately preceding such conversion. The notes mature 24 months after issuance, if not converted prior to the maturity date, the notes automatically convert into shares of common stock of the Company at a per share price equal to 80% of the closing bid price of the common stock of the Company during the 20 consecutive trading days immediately preceding the maturity date. The holders of the notes will receive, in the aggregate, pro rata based on investment, a total of five percent of the revenues of Caretta Therapeutics, LLC during the years ending December 31, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. The investors shall also receive warrants to purchase a number of shares equal to 30% of the amount invested, for a period of two years, at an exercise price per share equal to 110% of the closing bid price of the common stock of the Company on the six-month anniversary of the date of issuance of such warrant. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,382,000, under the Private Placement.

During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $890,000 under the Private Placement. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded $192,134 and $510,751 of derivative liability and royalty liability, respectively, associated with these convertible notes. In addition, the Company also recorded debt discount related to the relative fair value of the warrants in the amount of $34,755. As of December 31, 2017, the convertible notes converted into shares 2,091,170 of common stock, fair valued at $846,646. The Company also recorded a gain on extinguishment of debt and related derivative liability in the amount of $243,716 and extinguishment on related party debt and derivative liability as contributed capital of $49,251.

Prior to April 18, 2017 the Company conducted a private offering with offering for sale certain convertible notes up to an aggregate of $2,500,000. After April 18, 2017 the Company amended and expanded the private offering to allow for the issuance of up to $11,500,000. Under the amended and expanded offering, the Company conducted a private offering (the "Private Placement 2017"), which bear interest at the rate of 7.5% per annum. The Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,317,482 through December 31, 2017.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $744,800 under the Private Placement 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company recorded $3,323 and $599,218 of debt discount related to the relative fair value of the warrants and royalty liability, respectively, associated with these convertible notes. As of March 31, 2018, a holder of a certain related party convertible note converted their note into 74,973 shares of the Company's common stock, fair valued at $25,000. In connection with the conversion, the Company also recorded $13,508 extinguishment on related party debt and derivative liability as contributed capital.

The notes issued under the private placements are convertible into shares of common stock of the Company based upon the table below:

__________ 

* This debt converted into shares of common stock during the year ended December 31, 2017.

** All notes have been converted into shares of common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2018.

*** The floor conversion price for the $475,000 of convertible debt is as follows:

The holders of the notes were issued a warrant entitling the holder the right to purchase shares of Company common stock, equal to 30% of the value of their original convertible note. The warrant has a three-year term with an exercise price of $1.30 per share. Under the amended and expanded subscription agreement, the Company issued warrants to purchase 618,685 shares of the Company's common stock with a relative fair value of $32,546.

For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company has issued 223,440 warrants to purchase common stock of the Company with a relative fair value of $3,323 in connection with the private placement conducted during the period.

NOTE 8. NOTE PAYABLE - RELATED PARTY

On July 25, 2017, the Company settled its line-of-credit with the Denver Savings Bank through a promissory note from Mike Kemery, a Principal at K4 Enterprises (an entity partially owned and controlled by the President of the Company), in the principal amount of $1,500,000. The note carries an interest rate of 4.5% and mature in three years. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the Company incurred a $300,000 loan origination fee, payable on demand. The Company recorded the fee as a debt discount. The discount is being amortized over the life of the note and the unamortized balance at March 31, 2018 was $231,264.

NOTE 9. ROYALTY LIABILITY

The holders of the certain convertible notes referenced in Note 7 will receive, in the aggregate, pro rata based on investment, a total of five percent of the revenues of Caretta Therapeutics, LLC during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

On April 18, 2017 the Company revised the royalty agreement with the amendment and expansion of the subscription agreement from a maximum aggregate $2,500,000 to a maximum aggregate of $11,500,000. The term of the royalty for OTC Roll-On Venodol and OTC Oral Venodol begins October 1, 2018 and ends on December 21, 2023. The royalty term of prescription strength shall be from October 1, 2018 and ending December 31, 2024. Notwithstanding the forgoing, the royalty shall terminate upon the Maximum royalty amount as described in the table below:

For 2018 the Royalty changed for new subscribers such that the "Royalty Term" shall mean the period beginning October 1, 2018 and ending on the date set forth on the following table for the subscriber's Affiliated Investment Amount.

For the year ended the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had recorded a total of $2,512,634 of debt discount related to the relative fair value of the royalty liability, associated with these convertible notes. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company recorded $599,218 in debt discount related to the relative fair value of the royalties associated with these convertible notes. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company recorded an unrealized gain on the change of present value of the royalty liabilities in the amount of $5,091.

NOTE 10. LEASES

As of March 31, 2018, the Company had one lease agreement. On December 15, 2016, the Company entered into a commercial sublease with K4 Enterprises in Urbandale, Iowa, for a term of five years, commencing December 15, 2016, ending December 1, 2021, and automatically continuing on a year-to-year basis thereafter, unless terminated in accordance with the provisions thereof. K4 Enterprises is a related party. Monthly rent is $1,314, which will increase by 2% annually, plus a proportionate share of expenses, which will initially be $800 per month. Expenses in 2017 increased to $1,286 per month.

NOTE 11. INCOME TAXES

Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon sufficient future taxable income during the period that deductible temporary differences and carry-forwards are expected to be available to reduce taxable income.

At March 31, 2018, the Company's deferred tax assets consisted primarily of net operating loss carry forwards. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, the material reconciling items between the tax benefit computed at the statutory rate and the actual benefit recognized in the financial statements consisted of expenses related to share-based compensation and the change in the valuation allowance during the applicable period. At March 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company has recorded a 100% valuation allowance as management believes it is likely that any deferred tax assets will not be realized.

As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a net operating loss carry forward of approximately $35 million, which will expire between years 2028 and 2036. Due to the change in ownership provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, our net operating loss carry forwards are expected to be subject to significant annual limitations for the change in ownership that resulted in the merger with American Exploration.

On December 22, 2017, new federal tax reform legislation was enacted in the United States (the "2017 Tax Act"), resulting in significant changes from previous tax law. The 2017 Tax Act reduces the federal corporate income tax rate to a flat rate of 21%, from a graduated rate structure with a top rate of 35%, effective January 1, 2018. The rate change, along with certain immaterial changes in tax basis resulting from the 2017 Tax Act, resulted in a reduction of the Company's net deferred tax assets of approximately $4.6 million, and a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance.

NOTE 12. EQUITY

The Company has authorized the issuance of 3,000,000 shares of Series A preferred stock, 500,000 shares of Series C preferred stock, 1,500,000 shares of preferred stock and 4,000,000,000 shares of common stock.

Common Stock

During the three months ended March 31, 2018 the Company issued 74,973 shares of the Company's common stock. The issuance was the result of a conversion of a related party convertible note in the amount of $25,000.

Options

2009 Plan

In 2009, the Company adopted the 2009 Stock Option Plan (the "2009 Plan"). The 2009 Plan allows the Company to issue options to officers, directors and employees, as well as consultants, to purchase up to 7,000,000 shares of common stock.

As of March 31, 2018, there are 5,200 stock options outstanding under the 2009 Plan.

2015 Equity Incentive Plan

On November 25, 2015, the Company authorized the Spotlight Innovation Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2015 Plan"). The total number of shares of common stock which may be issued under the options granted pursuant to the 2015 Plan is 3,600,000.

2016 Equity Incentive Plan

On December 13, 2016, the Company adopted the Spotlight Innovation Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2016 Plan") and reserved 5,000,000 shares of common stock under the 2016 Plan.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2018, the Company issued no options to purchase shares of common stock to a former member of the Board of Directors and current Board of Director members. A summary of the stock option activity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 is presented below.

Warrants

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company issued warrants to purchase 223,440 shares of common stock. These warrants were issued in connection with the Company's private placement conducted during the three months ended March 31, 2018. These warrants have an exercise price equal to the closing price of the Company's common stock on the six-month anniversary of the issuance thereof. The relative fair value of the warrants based on the Black-Scholes model was $3,323.

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, 42,500 warrants expired with an average exercise price of $1.25.

The fair value of the above warrants was determined by using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Variables used in the model for the warrants issued include: i) discount rates ranging from 2.05% to 2.46%; ii) expected terms of 3.00 years; iii) expected volatility ranging from 138.90% to 145.14%; iv) zero expected dividends and v) stock price of $0.11 to $0.19.

A summary of the warrant activity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 is presented below:

The weighted average remaining contractual term of the outstanding warrants and exercisable warrants as of March 31, 2018 is 1.37 years.

NOTE 13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

On January 10, 2017, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Cristopher Grunewald pursuant to which he would continue to serve as the Company's Chief Executive Officer at a salary of $180,000 per annum. The agreement was to continue until the second anniversary thereof, unless terminated earlier pursuant to the agreement. Pursuant to such agreement Mr. Grunewald's employment may be terminated by either the Company or by Mr. Grunewald at any time and for any reason; provided that, unless otherwise provided in the agreement, either party shall be required to give the other party at least 30 days advance written notice of any termination of Mr. Grunewald's employment. In the event that Mr. Grunewald's employment is terminated without cause by the Company or by Mr. Grunewald for good reason (as these terms are defined in the agreement) or subject to the terms of the agreement as a result of a change in control (as defined in the agreement), Mr. Grunewald shall be entitled to monthly payments equal to 12 months' salary for the year in which the termination occurred as well as to receive payment for any accrued amounts (as defined in the agreement).

On May 22, 2017, Mr. Grunewald resigned as Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Pursuant to Mr. Grunewald's resignation, the Company issued Mr. Grunewald a warrant to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock of the Corporation with an exercise price of $1.25 per share for a term of three years. Mr. Grunewald also agreed to cancel 1,618,627 shares of common stock of the Company previously owned by Mr. Grunewald. Mr. Grunewald remains with the Company in an advisory capacity pursuant to a consulting agreement.

On April 21, 2017, Dr. Beetler (Director) purchased a convertible note in the principal amount of $25,000 from the Company, in a private placement, and received a warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of the Company's common stock. These warrants have an exercise price equal to the closing price of the Company common stock of the six-month issuance thereof. The material terms of the note are:

On June 7, 2017, Dr. Beetler purchased a convertible note in the principal amount of $250,000 from the Company, in a private placement, and received a warrant to purchase 82,500 shares of the Company's common stock. The warrants have an exercise price of $1.30 per share. The material terms of the note are:

On September 25, 2017, Mr. Arthur (Director) purchased a convertible note in the principal amount of $35,000 from the Company, in a private placement, and received a warrant to purchase 10,500 shares of the Company's common stock. The warrants have an exercise price of $1.30 per share. The material terms of the note are:

In connection with the issuance of the note, Caretta Therapeutics, LLC (a subsidiary of the Company) entered into a royalty agreement with Mr. Arthur pursuant to which Mr. Arthur will receive a pro rata share of a royalty during the years ended 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 of the Company's subsidiary Caretta Therapeutics, LLC as follows:

On July 25, 2017, the Company settled its line-of-credit with the Denver Savings Bank through a promissory note from Mike Kemery, a Principal at K4 Enterprises (an entity partially owned and controlled by John Krohn, the President, COO, and CEO of the Company), in the principal amount of $1,500,000. The note carries an interest rate of 4.5% and mature in three years. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the Company incurred a $300,000 loan origination fee, payable on demand. The Company recorded the fee as a debt discount.

On March 21, 2018, Ms. Greta Lang (a related party) purchased a convertible note in the principal amount of $275,000 from the Company, in a private placement, and received a warrant to purchase 82,500 shares of the Company's common stock. The material terms of the note are:

In connection with the issuance of the note, Caretta Therapeutics, LLC (a subsidiary of the Company) entered into a Royalty Agreement with Ms. Lang pursuant to which Ms. Lang will receive a pro rata share of a royalty during the years ended 2018 through September 30, 2024 of the Company's subsidiary Caretta Therapeutics, LLC with a maximum royalty amount of 9 times the principal amount of the convertible note.

As of March 31, 2018, the Company has a demand note with K4 Enterprises in the amount of $745,731. There are no formal payment terms, this loan is payable upon demand.

NOTE 14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In April 2018, a convertible note – related party in the amount of $25,000 was purchased by Greta Lang. The terms of this note were consistent with those shown in Notes 7, 9 and 13. She received a warrant to purchase 7,500 shares of the Company's common stock at an exercise price of $1.30 per share with this transaction.

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Overview

We are a pharmaceutical company focused on acquiring the intellectual property rights to innovative and proprietary therapeutics designed to address unmet medical needs, with an emphasis on rare, emerging, or neglected diseases. To find and evaluate unique opportunities, we leverage our extensive relationships with leading scientists, academic institutions and other sources. We provide value-added development capability to accelerate progress. When scientifically significant benchmarks have been achieved, we will endeavor to partner with proven market leaders via sale, out-license or strategic alliances.

Plan of Operation

As of March 31, 2018, the Company had four subsidiaries: Celtic Biotech Iowa, Inc., Caretta Therapeutics, LLC, SMA Therapeutics, LLC, and Zika Therapeutics, LLC.

Cancer

On June 4, 2014, Celtic Biotech Iowa, Inc. (hereinafter "Celtic Iowa," a subsidiary of the Company) acquired Celtic Biotech Limited (hereinafter "CBL"). CBL was founded in 2003 in Dublin, Ireland and is developing novel and highly specialized compounds derived from snake venom, for the treatment of solid cancers and cancer imaging.

Pain Management

Caretta Therapeutics, LLC ("Caretta") was formed in August 2016 to develop the commercialization of over-the-counter products. Caretta holds a license agreement to develop, manufacture and sell certain products derived from snake venom that may have analgesic properties.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

On October 13, 2016, the Company entered into an Exclusive License Agreement with Indiana University Research and Technology Corporation to commercialize STL-182, an orally-available small molecule that may have therapeutic potential for treating spinal muscular atrophy. Spinal muscular atrophy is an autosomal recessive disorder that is a leading genetic cause of death in infants and toddlers.

Zika Virus Infection

On August 19, 2016, the Company entered a Sponsored Research Agreement (the "SRA") with the Florida State University Research Foundation ("FSURF") starting September 1, 2016, to perform certain research, over a two-year period, related to the discovery, synthetic modification, and preclinical validation of drug-like compounds intended to treat patients with Zika virus infection. The research is being conducted under the direction of Professor Hengli Tang.

Generally, we have financed operations to date through the proceeds of the private placement of equity and debt instruments. Management anticipates additional increases in operating expenses and capital expenditures relating to retention of additional personnel, and advancement of our technologies. We anticipate that we will finance these expenses with further issuances of equity securities and debt issuances.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2018, the Company raised $744,800 in convertible debt proceeds. The Company anticipates securing additional financing in 2017. Additional issuances of equity or convertible debt securities could result in dilution to our current shareholders. Further, such securities may have rights, preferences or privileges senior to our common stock. Additional financing may not be available upon acceptable terms, or at all. There can be no assurances, however, that management will be able to obtain sufficient additional funds when needed, or that such funds, if available, will be obtained on terms satisfactory to the Company

Critical Accounting Policies

The following describes the critical accounting policies used in reporting our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, accounting standards allow more than one alternative accounting method for reporting. In those cases, our reported results of operations would be different should we employ an alternative accounting method.

The significant accounting policies and bases of presentation for our consolidated financial statements are described in Note 2 "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies." The preparation of our financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

We believe the following accounting policies and estimates to be critical:

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates include those regarding the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of Memcine and share-based compensation.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the Company's accounts, including those of the Company's subsidiaries. Accordingly, the Company has consolidated CBL, Celtic Iowa, CDT (Suspended), Caretta, ZT, and SMA. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Non-Controlling Interest

The Company is required to report its non-controlling interest in all subsidiaries as a separate component of shareholders' equity. The Company is also required to present the consolidated net income and the portion of the consolidated net income allocable to the non-controlling interest and to the shareholders of the Company separately in its consolidated statements of operations. Losses applicable to the non-controlling interest are allocated to the non-controlling interest even when those losses are in excess of the non-controlling interest's investment basis.

In the fourth quarter of 2016 the Company discontinued its operations with Memcine Pharmaceuticals. As part of the discontinuation, the Company sold it 100% of its rights including the non-controlling interest in Memcine.

In-Process Research and Development

In-process research and development ("IPR&D") represents the estimated fair value assigned to research and development projects acquired in a purchased business combination that have not been completed at the date of acquisition and which have no alternative future use. IPR&D assets acquired in a business combination are capitalized as indefinite-lived intangible assets. These assets remain indefinite-lived until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development efforts. During the periods prior to completion or abandonment, those acquired indefinite-lived assets are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. During periods after completion, those acquired indefinite-lived assets are amortized based on their useful life. The fair value of the assets acquired was $6,977,347. These assets are still subject to research and development completion and accordingly, no amortization has been recorded.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Intangibles

The Company performs impairment tests on its long-lived assets when circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. If required, recoverability is tested by comparing the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the asset or asset group to its carrying value. If the carrying value is not recoverable, the asset or asset group is written down to fair value. For the quarter ended March 31, 2018, the Company has evaluated and recorded no impairment to the Company's intangible assets.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock and stock options based on the grant date fair value of the awards. The Company determines the fair value of stock option grants using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company determines the fair value of shares of non-vested stock (also commonly referred to as restricted stock) based on the last quoted price of our stock on the date of the share grant. The fair value determined represents the cost for the award and is recognized over the vesting period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. As share-based compensation expense is recognized based on awards ultimately expected to vest, the Company reduces the expense for estimated forfeitures based on historical forfeiture rates, if historical forfeiture rates are available. Previously recognized compensation costs may be adjusted to reflect the actual forfeiture rate for the entire award at the end of the vesting period. Excess tax benefits, if any, are recognized as an addition to paid-in capital.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company follows FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement ("ASC 820"), which clarifies fair value as an exit price, establishes a hierarchal disclosure framework for measuring fair value, and requires extended disclosures about fair value measurements. The provisions of ASC 820 apply to all financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value.

As defined in ASC 820, fair value, clarified as an exit price, represents the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As a result, fair value is a market-based approach that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability.

As a basis for considering these assumptions, ASC 820 defines a three-tier value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value.

The fair value hierarchy also requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The Company's IPR&D assets were valued on a discounted cash flow model using the income approach. The inputs to the model were within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Results of Operations

Financial Condition and Changes in Financial Condition

Overall Operating Results:

Comparison of the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

Revenue. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, revenues of $14,458 were generated by Caretta Therapeutics. There was no revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Cost of Sales. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 cost of goods sold decreased to $2,856 from $52,875 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The decrease was mainly due to reduction of cost of sales due to new product development and contractor costs in the three months ended March 31, 2017.

General and Administrative Expenses . Our selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $533,803 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from $1,636,775 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, representing a $1,102,972 decrease. The decrease was mainly due to a reduction of stock compensation expense of $934,000. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company issued 1,460,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $934,000.

Other Income (Expense). For the three months ended March 31, 2018, other expense, net was $200,973, compared to $286,132 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, a decrease of $85,159. The decrease in other expense was primarily due a reduction in interest expense of $317,258. The higher interest expense related for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was due to the conversion of $405,000 in notes into 767,282 shares of common stock. The increase interest is related to the charging of the unamortized debt discount to interest expense.

Net Loss . The Company's net loss was $983,381 and $2,152,228 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The decrease in net loss was mainly due to a reduction in interest expense and reduced stock compensation expense.

Liquidity and Capital Resources:

We are an early stage company and have not generated any revenue to date. We have incurred recurring losses to date. Our financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern and, accordingly, do not include adjustments relating to the recoverability and realization of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue in operation.

The Company had $39,601 in cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2018. The Company has negative working capital of $2,523,964, and total stockholders' deficit of $193,342 as of March 31, 2018. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company has experienced recurring losses from operations and may not have enough cash and working capital to fund its operations beyond the very near term, which raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Management has made a similar note in the financial statements. The Company anticipates it will need approximately $4,000,000 for the next twelve months to fund operations. We may be required to seek additional capital by selling debt or equity securities, selling assets, or otherwise be required to bring cash flows in balance when we approach a condition of cash insufficiency. The sale of additional equity or debt securities, if accomplished, may result in dilution to our then shareholders. We provide no assurance that financing will be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, or at all.

The Company has been receiving funding from K4 Enterprises, LLC ("K4 Enterprises") beginning in May 2016 to meet short-term operational needs while the Company attempts to attract new outside funding. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, K4 Enterprises has provided short-term operating cash totaling $221,000 in the form of cash advances or direct payment of invoices for the Company.

Operating Activities

Cash flow from operations – Net cash used in operating activities was $790,703 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $931,926 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Net cash used in operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was derived from our net loss, which included amortization of debt discount of $149,634 and unrealized gain on change in present value of royalties of $5,091. Our net loss from operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 included a gain on extinguishment of debt and related derivative liability of $13,508, compared to a gain of $205,745 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Investing Activities

Cash flow from investing activities – Our investing activities used cash of $0 during the three months ended March 31, 2018. For the three ended March 31, 2017, our investing activities used cash of $37,545, primarily as a result of cash paid for notes receivables of $36,771 and purchases of property and equipment of $774.

Financing Activities

Cash flow from financing activities – During the three months ended March 31, 2018, our financing activities provided cash of $760,500, primarily as a result of proceeds from convertible debentures of $469,800, proceeds from a related party demand note of $221,000 and proceeds from related party convertible debt of $275,000, offset primarily by payments on debt of $205,300. Our financing activities provided cash of $880,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2017, primarily as a result of proceeds from convertible debentures of $405,000 and proceeds from a demand note of $685,000, offset primarily by payments on debt of $210,000.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any significant off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

During the quarter ended March 31, 2018, there were no accounting standards and interpretations issued which are expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, operations or cash flows.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Pursuant to Item 305(e) of Regulation S-K (§ 229.305(e)), the Company is not required to provide the information required by this Item as it is a "smaller reporting company," as defined by Rule 229.10(f)(1).

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We have performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of March 31, 2018. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our President and COO, CEO and CFO, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of March 31, 2018 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports filed or submitted by us under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure due to the material weaknesses described below.

Based on our evaluation under the framework described above, our management concluded that we had "material weaknesses" (as such term is defined below) in our control environment and financial reporting process consisting of the following as of the Evaluation Date:

A "material weakness" is defined under SEC rules as a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of a company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by the company's internal controls.

A system of controls, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance that the objectives of the system of controls are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the quarter ended March 31, 2018, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with management's evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over the financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Neither the Company nor its property is a party to any pending legal proceeding.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There are no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

On March 21, 2018, the Company issued a convertible note in the principal amount of $275,000, in a private placement, and a warrant to purchase 82,500 shares of the Company's common stock.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

None.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6. Exhibits

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SIGNATURES

In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report on Form 10-Q to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.